5 Simple Steps To Make The Perfect Strawberry Jam In The Uk

Nov 18, 2024 · 8 min read

Discover the easy and delightful process of making the perfect strawberry jam at home in the UK with our 5 simple steps. From selecting the ripest strawberries to achieving the ideal consistency, this guide ensures a deliciously sweet spread that captures the essence of summer in every jar.

Hadwin Maverick

Editorial and Creative Lead

Making the perfect strawberry jam at home is not only a delightful culinary project but also a rewarding experience that brings the taste of summer into jars for you to enjoy all year round. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a sweet and tangy jam that tastes better than anything you can buy at the store. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 simple steps to make the perfect strawberry jam in the UK. 🍓

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment 🛒

To create delicious strawberry jam, you'll need to gather the following ingredients:

Fresh Strawberries: About 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of ripe strawberries
Granulated Sugar: 700g (1.5 lbs) for sweetness
Lemon Juice: From one lemon (this helps with setting the jam)
Pectin (optional): For extra setting power
Salt: A pinch to enhance flavor

Equipment Needed:

A large pot
A wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Jars (sterilized)
A ladle
A jam thermometer (optional, but very helpful)

Note: Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to prevent any contamination, which can spoil your jam.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries 🍓

Carefully wash your strawberries to remove any dirt or pesticides. Once clean, remove the stems and any bruised parts. Then, chop the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on your preference for chunks in your jam.

For smoother jam, you can also mash the strawberries with a fork or a potato masher. The more you mash, the less chunky the end result will be.

Step 3: Cook the Jam Mixture 🍳

In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the strawberries to release their juices and dissolve the sugar.

After 30 minutes, place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Important: It’s essential to keep stirring to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Temperature Check:

If you have a jam thermometer, aim for a temperature of 105°C (221°F) for your jam to reach the perfect consistency.

Step 4: Test for Doneness 🔍

To check if your jam is ready, perform the plate test. Here’s how:

Chill a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes.
When you think your jam is ready, drop a spoonful onto the chilled plate.
Let it sit for a few seconds, then run your finger through the jam. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, your jam is ready. If not, continue cooking and test again in a few minutes.

Tip: Remember to keep stirring your mixture while you check for doneness.

Step 5: Jar and Store Your Jam 🏺

Once your jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a bit of space at the top.

To seal your jars:

Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue.
Place the lids on tightly.
Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. As they cool, you'll hear a popping sound, which indicates that the jars are sealing properly.

Storage Tips: Store your jars in a cool, dark place. If you notice any jars that haven't sealed correctly, keep those in the fridge and use them first.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Jam! 🎉

Making homemade strawberry jam is a straightforward process that results in a delicious product you can share with family and friends. Use it on toast, as a topping for desserts, or even as a filling in cakes.

Enjoy the satisfaction of having made your very own strawberry jam with just a few simple steps! Happy jamming! 🍓